If your dog occasionally sneaks food from the counter or you sometimes share a bite from your plate, you’re not alone. Many dogs eat human food from time to time, and while some people foods are safe, that doesn’t always mean they’re good for dogs.
If your pup has ever grabbed a tortilla left unattended or you’ve wondered whether sharing a piece of your quesadilla is okay, you might be asking if tortillas are safe for dogs. The short answer is that tortillas are not toxic to dogs, but they are not healthy, and eating them can come with a few minor risks. Here’s what every dog owner should know.
Why Shouldn’t Dogs Eat Tortillas?
Dogs usually won’t have a serious reaction if they eat a small piece of tortilla, but this food doesn’t offer any real health benefits. Tortillas are high in calories and salt while providing very little nutritional value for dogs.
On top of that, tortillas may contain ingredients or additives that can be problematic for some dogs. Even without these additional concerns, the combination of excess calories and sodium makes tortillas a poor choice for regular feeding.
Risks of Feeding Tortillas to Dogs
While tortillas aren’t poisonous, there are several reasons to be cautious before letting your dog eat them.
High Calorie Content
Tortillas don’t provide meaningful nutrients for dogs, but they do contain a surprising number of calories. Treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake, and tortillas can easily push dogs over that limit.
Regularly consuming high-calorie foods can lead to weight gain, which may increase the risk of long-term health issues. If you do offer a tortilla, it should only be a very small piece and given rarely.
High Salt Levels
Many tortillas contain significant amounts of sodium, which is not ideal for dogs. Too much salt can cause stomach upset and may contribute to dehydration, especially if a dog doesn’t drink enough water afterward.
Tortilla Fillings
Most tortillas aren’t eaten plain. They’re often filled with ingredients like salsa, avocado, cheese, eggs, chicken, or pork. Some of these fillings can be unhealthy or unsafe for dogs.
If a dog eats tortillas from your plate, they may also consume these fillings, which increases the risk. If a tortilla is ever given, it should always be plain and unseasoned.
Seasonings and Preservatives
Store-bought tortillas are processed foods and often contain preservatives, additives, and seasonings. Some seasoned tortillas may include ingredients such as garlic, which can be harmful to dogs.
Because of this, only plain tortillas should ever be considered, and even then, only in small amounts.
Possible Allergies or Intolerances
Although uncommon, some dogs have gluten sensitivities or food allergies. Flour tortillas may trigger symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, or skin irritation in these dogs.
Corn tortillas are gluten-free, but they still contain calories and salt, so they should not be considered a healthy option either.
Better Alternatives to Tortillas for Dogs
The best option is always to stick with dog food and treats made specifically for canines. However, if you want to offer something tortilla-like, there are a few safer alternatives.
- Corn tortillas may be slightly better for dogs with gluten sensitivities, though they are still not healthy due to salt and calories.
- Homemade tortillas can be a slightly safer option since you control the ingredients and can avoid salt, additives, and preservatives. These should still only be given occasionally.
- Dog-friendly wraps, such as cooked sweet potato, can be used to hold safe, dog-approved ingredients and provide a healthier alternative.
Conclusion
Tortillas are unlikely to cause serious harm to dogs, but they are far from a healthy snack. Their high salt and calorie content can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if eaten regularly. Flour tortillas may also cause problems for dogs with gluten sensitivities.
For the best health, dogs should primarily eat food and treats designed for them. If tortillas are offered at all, they should be plain, given in very small amounts, and only on rare occasions.
Disclaimer
The content on Healthydogsmeals.com is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before introducing new foods into your dog’s diet or if you have concerns about your dog’s health. Individual dogs may react differently to certain foods.
FAQ
Dogs can eat small amounts of plain tortillas, but they are not healthy and should only be given occasionally.
Tortillas are high in calories and salt and provide little nutritional value, which makes them a poor treat choice for dogs.
Corn tortillas are gluten-free, but they still contain salt and calories, so they should only be given in very small amounts.
